Why it's not a good time to be scared of snakes in Georgia

Bad news for those of you scared of snakes: reported snakes bites are on a record pace this year, according to Georgia Poison Control.

From January through April, there were about 55 people bitten, GPC Director Gaylord Lopez said. That's about 50 percent more than the number of bites reported in the same time period last year. And last year itself saw a record number of snake bites -- around 500 -- Lopez said. At this rate, we're well on the way to breaking that record this year.

So why the increase? Lopez blames the winter -- or this year's lack thereof. Lopez said the mild temperatures we felt this year meant that there was more time for snakes to slither about. In fact, the first reported snake bite of the year was on Jan. 3, Lopez said.

Typically, Georgia Poison Control sees most reports of snake bites from March through October (apparently snakes don't like the cold).

Snake bites can be painful and scary, but they usually aren't fatal, Lopez said. There have only been two deaths reported in the "last 8 or 9 years" in Georgia, he said.

But while they may not kill you, they can make a huge dent in your pocket book.

Lopez said vials of anti-venom can run anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 a pop -- and most people need between four and six. It's not uncommon for someone to get up to 40(!) vials. Do the math: that's not cheap.

If you are bitten, Lopez said worry about one thing: "Get yourself to a hospital."

It's true that there can be ways to tell if a snake is venomous by its appearance, most people aren't paying close enough attention to really tell, Lopez said. Plus, alcohol can often play a role. Bottom line: it's better to be safe than sorry. Usually symptoms show up sooner than later, so don't waste time.

Only about six venomous species are found in Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources: Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, the Timber Rattlesnake, the Pigmy Rattlesnake, the Eastern Coral Snake and the Cottonmouth (also called the Water Moccasin). Of those, the Copperhead is most widely seen through much of metro Atlanta.

Where can you expect to see snakes? Well, anywhere really, but especially in wooded areas and places where there are water supplies such as lakes or streams. Be especially wary in bushes or shrubs or if you're doing something like moving old wood. Snakes aren't looking for you, but if you sneak up on them, they might not be happy.